Ferritin (Iron Stores)
Also known as: Iron stores test, Serum ferritin, iron ka test, ferritin test kya hai
A protein that stores iron. Ferritin level reflects how much iron your body has in reserve.
Why it's ordered
Confirming iron deficiency (the most common cause of anaemia), and investigating tiredness or hair loss.
Preparation
No fasting needed. Stop iron tablets for a few days before if your doctor agrees.
Typical adult values
| Strongly suggests iron deficiency | below 30 ng/mL |
|---|---|
| Typical (women) | about 15–150 ng/mL |
| Typical (men) | about 30–400 ng/mL |
Ranges vary between labs and methods. Always use the range printed on your report.
If it's high
Ferritin rises with infection, inflammation, liver disease and iron overload. A high result alone does not mean you have too much iron.
If it's low
Low ferritin means low iron stores, even before haemoglobin falls.
Good to know
Because inflammation raises ferritin, a 'normal' ferritin can hide iron deficiency when CRP is high. Labs vary, so check your report's range.
Common questions
Is a ferritin of 20 low?
It can be. Many labs list about 15–150 ng/mL as typical for women, so 20 may be marked normal, but a ferritin below 30 ng/mL strongly suggests low iron stores. Always use the range printed on your report.
Can ferritin look normal in iron deficiency?
Yes. Because inflammation raises ferritin, a 'normal' ferritin can hide iron deficiency when CRP is high.
Does high ferritin mean too much iron?
Not by itself. Ferritin rises with infection, inflammation, liver disease and iron overload.
Do I need to fast for a ferritin test?
No fasting needed. Stop iron tablets for a few days before if your doctor agrees.